The Category 3 Pannwich was the eating challenge for several people that helped raise funds.

The fundraiser helped make The Breakfast Shoppe in Severna Park the WBAL-TV Local Leader for this month.

Ava Conklin, 10, was diagnosed with a brain tumor in October 2011. After an emergency operation, she contracted meningitis, leading to a series of strokes that left her paralyzed, her family said. More than a year later, Ava's father said she is finally regaining her ability to eat, talk and walk.

"I'm very pleased to say she walked 105 feet with a walker, she's in public school, she eats what everyone eats now, as well, and she sits up and she's talking again," Kevin Conklin told 11 News' Ava Marie, who met the family on what was declared Ava Conklin Day at The Breakfast Shoppe in February.

The owners and employees of the Severna Park restaurant said they are pleased to see Ava's progress. They featured the little girl in their annual fundraiser, and on Feb. 9, they presented her family with a check for $6,366 toward her medical bills.

Part of the money came from proceeds of the Category 3 Pannwich eating contest, which was a three-layer chicken and waffle sandwich named after WBAL-TV meteorologist Tony Pann. Fifty people tried the challenge, and The Breakfast Shoppe said only 11 people succeeded in finishing it.

Charm City Cakes made a sugary replica of the sandwich for the final celebration.

"The response has been excellent. Thanks to WBAL and to all of our customers who have come out and shown support. As you can see from the turnout here today, it's been a fantastic fundraiser," The Breakfast Shoppe owner Kyle Algaze said during that final celebration.

Ava's family said the outpouring of support has been more than they could ask for.

"I'm humbled. It's the generosity from Kyle and Jeff, the owners of The Breakfast Shoppe, to the people at The Breakfast Shoppe and the patrons that come in every day -- we are truly blessed and humbled that so many people are so caring and giving for our cause for our daughter," Kevin Conklin said.

"It's awesome that they're all doing this for me," little Ava said through a voice strained by recovery.

The girl's father said her recovery will take years. The money raised by The Breakfast Shoppe will help go toward her physical therapy.

To donate to the Conklin family and Ava's recovery, click on the link above.